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ESPN’s Mel Kiper Reveals Full First-Round Pick Predictions for 2026 NFL Draft

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32) Seattle Seahawks: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 180

Avieon Terrell enjoyed a breakout season, totaling 48 tackles, nine pass defenses, five forced fumbles, and three sacks. Terrell’s fluid hips and quick feet help him mirror receivers, and he plays with an aggressive edge in both coverage and run support. Though slightly undersized, his speed, instincts, and knack for creating turnovers give him scheme versatility inside or outside.

"Let's close out Round 1 with a talented cornerback to replace free agents Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe, giving this Super Bowl champion defense yet another playmaker." - Kiper

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1) Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 225

Fernando Mendoza made the leap in 2025 after transferring from Cal to Indiana, putting together one of the most efficient seasons in the country. He completed 72.0% of his passes for 3,535 yards with 41 touchdowns and six interceptions across 16 games, while adding seven rushing scores on the ground.

Just as notable was his growth inside the pocket. Mendoza cut his sack total from 41 the previous season to 25, showing improved processing speed and a better feel for pressure. He doesn’t rely on overwhelming arm strength, but he consistently wins with anticipation, touch, and timing, operating comfortably within structure and keeping the offense on schedule.

"I won't waste a lot of time here: Mendoza to the Raiders seems pretty obvious at this point." - Kiper

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2) New York Jets: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 205

Caleb Downs again showcased his instincts and command of the secondary in 2025, totaling 67 tackles, five tackles for loss, two interceptions, one sack, and six run stops across 14 games.

Downs processes quickly and rarely looks out of position, operating with the awareness of a veteran. His combination of football intelligence, range, and versatility allows him to impact the game in coverage, against the run, and as a situational blitzer.

"This would be the highest draft slot for a safety since Eric Turner went No. 2 in 1991. Downs is worthy, though. He reads the offense so well, and then he has quickness, physicality, and ball skills to make plays against both the run and the pass. " - Kiper
3) Arizona Cardinals: OLB David Bailey, Texas Tech
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 250

David Bailey erupted in 2025 after transferring from Stanford to Texas Tech, delivering one of the most productive defensive seasons in the country. Over 14 games, he recorded 76 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, 71 pressures, eight run stops, three forced fumbles, and four pass breakups.

Bailey blends speed, power, and advanced hand usage to consistently win off the edge. He can convert speed to power, finish through contact, and disrupt plays in both phases, making him a relentless presence in opposing backfields.

"Tough call here between Bailey and Ohio State's Arvell Reese. I have Reese one spot higher on my board, but the Cardinals might opt for the more proven production." - Kiper
4) Tennessee Titans: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 243

Arvell Reese filled up the stat sheet in 2025, recording 69 tackles, nine tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, nine run stops, and two pass breakups over 14 games for Ohio State. Reese plays fast and decisively, triggering downhill once he identifies the play. His range shows up chasing from the backside, and his closing burst makes him a legitimate threat as a blitzer. Whether aligned on the edge or working in space, he brings urgency and physicality that translate to disruptive production.

"Reese's instincts and burst are all over the tape. I'm still ranking him as a linebacker at the moment, and he could help Tennessee there. But new coach Robert Saleh might very well move him to the edge, where he played the majority of the time in 2025." - Kiper
5) New York Giants: Spencer Fano OT, Utah
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 302

Spencer Fano locked down the right tackle spot in 2025, starting 12 games and allowing zero sacks while consistently limiting pressure. Fano wins with technique and control rather than sheer length. He delivers a firm punch, stays balanced through contact, and understands leverage in both phases of the game. His strength at the point of attack and overall awareness make him a steady presence in pass protection and a dependable contributor in the run game.

"Fano started 36 games over three seasons, and he allowed just four sacks (and only one over the past two years, once flipping from left tackle to right tackle). His technique and power are outstanding." - Kiper
6) Cleveland Browns: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 195

Carnell Tate continued Ohio State’s wide receiver pipeline with a strong 2025 season, totaling 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns across 11 games. Averaging 17.2 yards per catch, Tate stretches defenses vertically and consistently creates chunk plays. His size, reliable hands, and polished route-running allow him to separate downfield and convert routine targets into explosive production.

"Cleveland would likely take its pick of the entire WR class and kick the can down the order on the OL. Tate is at the top of the receiver list right now, with great hands and savvy route running." - Kiper
7) Washington Commanders: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 243

Sonny Styles emerged as a versatile defensive weapon in 2025, totaling 77 tackles, seven tackles for loss, nine run stops, three pass breakups, one interception, one forced fumble, and one sack across 14 games. A former safety, Styles brings rare range and burst to the linebacker position. His ability to diagnose quickly, close ground in a hurry, and impact both the run and pass game makes him a modern second-level defender with scheme versatility.

"Styles is getting a lot of love around the league right now, and he's going to be fun to watch at the combine if he works out. The former safety has real speed on a 6-foot-4, 243-pound frame." - Kiper
8) New Orleans Saints: WR Makai Lemon, USC
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 195

Makai Lemon delivered a breakout 2025 campaign at USC, hauling in 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in 12 games. Ranking third nationally in receiving yards per game, Lemon consistently plays bigger than his frame. He attacks the football aggressively and turns short catches into explosive gains with his burst and creativity after the catch, making him a constant big-play threat.

"Quarterback Tyler Shough flashed down the stretch of his rookie season, but now the Saints must help him take the next step in Year 2. " - Kiper
9) Kansas City Chiefs: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 214

Jeremiyah Love was among the most explosive playmakers in college football in 2025, rushing for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns on 199 carries while adding 27 receptions for 280 yards and three scores in 12 games. Love combines vision, acceleration, and contact balance at a high level, forcing 60 missed tackles and routinely turning modest openings into chunk gains. His burst through the second level and ability to create after contact make him a constant big-play threat.

"Love is No. 2 on my Big Board, showcasing elite-level vision and burst. He can make a house call any time he touches the ball, and with his hands out of the backfield, he can stick on the field on third down." - Kiper
10) Cincinnati Bengals: EDGE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 275

Rueben Bain Jr. lived in opposing backfields in 2025, finishing with 64 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, 68 pressures, eight run stops, one forced fumble, and one interception over 16 games. Bain pairs power with polish, winning with a violent rip move and the ability to flatten and corner with speed and balance. His strength at the point of attack, combined with disciplined technique, makes him a disruptive force against both the run and the pass.

"If Bain is still on the board at No. 10, the Bengals should sprint the card in with his name on it." - Kiper
11) Miami Dolphins: OT/G Francis Mauigoa, Miami
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 315

Francis Mauigoa was a tone-setter on the right side in 2025, starting 15 games and allowing just two sacks while powering a physical run game. His strength shows up snap after snap, collapsing edges, and controlling defenders at the point of attack.

Mauigoa plays with heavy hands and strong balance, overwhelming rushers once he gets locked in. Whether he stays at tackle or eventually slides inside, his size and raw power provide a sturdy foundation up front with room still left to grow.

"If [Austin] Jackson stays healthy and takes ownership of the RT spot, Mauigoa could easily kick inside to guard. Some scouts think he's a better fit there, and plenty of attention will be paid to his arm length measurements this week at the combine." - Kiper
12) Dallas Cowboys: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 190

Mansoor Delane put together a steady 2025 campaign, totaling 35 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and two interceptions across 11 games. Technically refined and disciplined, Delane is comfortable in both man and zone coverage. He trusts his eyes, anticipates routes well, and consistently positions himself to make plays on the football, using timing and ball skills to stay a step ahead of receivers.

"If there weren't already enough signs for Dallas, the entire cornerback class is still available at No. 12 here. Delane can shut down opposing receivers while also making a bunch of plays on the ball. He broke up 11 passes and pulled down two interceptions last season." - Kiper
13) Los Angeles Rams (via ATL): CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 193

Jermod McCoy missed the 2025 season with a torn ACL, but his prior production keeps him firmly in early first-round consideration. In 2024, he recorded four interceptions and nine pass breakups after transferring from Oregon State, where he totaled two interceptions in 2023.

McCoy’s instincts and ball skills consistently show up on tape. He tracks the football naturally, plays with confidence when challenged, and has demonstrated the ability to generate turnovers at multiple stops during his college career.

"The Rams have the sort of roster that can go to the Super Bowl, and quarterback Matthew Stafford is set to return for another season. But cornerback is a definite weak spot; GM Les Snead has to make that position a priority this offseason." - Kiper
14) Baltimore Ravens: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 200

Despite battling a hamstring injury, Jordyn Tyson produced 61 receptions for 711 yards and eight touchdowns in 2025. The Colorado transfer separates with smooth route-running and wins through contact at the catch point. Tyson’s ability to high-point the football and operate in tight windows makes him a dependable target, particularly in scoring situations.

"Going with Tyson here would allow Zay Flowers to live in the slot -- where he is at his best -- and lift the whole offense. Tyson caught eight TD passes in 2025, and he excels on contested catches thanks to his 6-foot-2 frame and overall strength." - Kiper
15) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB CJ Allen, Georgia
Height: 6-foot-1 | Weight: 235

CJ Allen brings a downhill, physical presence to the linebacker position, finishing 2025 with 88 tackles, four pass defenses, 3.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception. Allen thrives attacking gaps and meeting ball carriers with force. While he may not possess elite sideline-to-sideline range, his instincts, toughness, and ability to diagnose quickly make him a reliable early-down defender who can still impact the passing game when called upon.

"Allen is a three-down linebacker who mixes speed with power to make plays in coverage, against the run, and as a blitzer. He might be LB3 in the class, but he's a top-25 prospect overall." - Kiper
16) New York Jets (via IND): DT Peter Woods, Clemson
Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 315

Peter Woods provides interior versatility, capable of lining up at both 1- and 3-technique, producing 30 tackles, two sacks, and one pass defense in 2025. Woods flashes quick hands and interior burst as a pass rusher while anchoring effectively against the run. With his frame, flexibility, and developmental upside, he stands out as a defensive tackle who can grow into a more disruptive interior force.

"Woods didn't have elite production in 2025, but the tape was still really good. He has the power to be a force at 3-technique for New York." - Kiper
17) Detroit Lions: DE Zion Young, Missouri
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 262

Zion Young emerged as a versatile edge threat, totaling 42 tackles, 6.5 sacks, two pass defenses, and two forced fumbles in 2025. Young plays with controlled power and a nonstop motor, setting a firm edge against the run while steadily collapsing the pocket. His blend of length, strength, and effort allows him to create pressure and force mistakes without needing elite bend to win.

"Detroit has to address the lack of depth on the edge. Young has strong hands and good quickness, and he had 6.5 sacks and 46 pressures last season." - Kiper
18) Minnesota Vikings: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
Height: 6-foot | Weight: 205

Dillon Thieneman filled up the stat sheet in 2025, posting 92 tackles, five pass defenses, two interceptions, and one sack. Thieneman plays with urgency and awareness, triggering downhill in run support while maintaining discipline in coverage. His instincts and versatility allow him to impact multiple areas of the defense, projecting as a safety who can contribute immediately.

"Harrison Smith is 37 years old; he might retire this offseason, and even if he returns, the safety room in Minnesota still has to be replenished. How about a Smith clone? Thieneman might not have Smith's 6-foot-2 size (he's 6-foot), but he reads the QB well and is savvy." - Kiper
19) Carolina Panthers: DE Keldric Faulk, Auburn
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 285

Keldric Faulk turned in a productive campaign with 44 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, 29 pressures, and 11 run stops. Faulk pairs rare length with power and surprising fluidity for his size. He can win inside or outside, using leverage and hand usage to disengage from blockers. While there’s still room to elevate his motor snap-to-snap, the physical upside remains substantial.

"If defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero can unlock Faulk's potential, this pick could look like a steal in a few years." - Kiper
20) Dallas Cowboys (via GB): DE Akheem Mesidor, Miami
Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 280

Akheem Mesidor broke out as a disruptive edge presence in 2025, piling up 63 tackles, 12.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles. Mesidor wins with a blend of power and burst, collapsing pockets and finishing through contact. His instincts show up when the ball is out, as he consistently attacks the football and creates takeaways. Though he’ll be 25 in April, his frame and production point to a versatile 4-3 defensive end capable of making an immediate impact.

"With 12.5 sacks in the final season of a six-year college career, Mesidor would at least jump-start the pass rush and start to build that unit back up" - Kiper
21) Pittsburgh Steelers: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama
Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 208

Ty Simpson delivered an efficient 2025 campaign, throwing for 3,567 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, five interceptions, and a 76.0 QBR. Simpson operates with poise and control, demonstrating the ability to distribute accurately and minimize errors. He processes quickly from the pocket and plays within structure, flashing enough arm talent to attack intermediate windows while protecting the football. His decision-making and efficiency profile him as a steady signal-caller with starting-caliber traits.

"The Steelers have to think about the QB position with a longer-view lens. They could bring back Aaron Rodgers or opt for another veteran stopgap to keep them in contention next season, but even if they go that route, they should still address their future at the position." - Kiper
22) Los Angeles Chargers: G Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 330

Olaivavega Ioane started 11 games at left guard in 2025 and did not allow a sack, controlling defenders at the point of attack with power and technique. Agile for his size, Ioane shows the ability to climb to the second level and displace linebackers in space. His combination of strength, balance, and sustained blocking makes him a tone-setter along the interior offensive line.

"GM Joe Hortiz has to do something to prevent all these hits quarterback Justin Herbert is taking every Sunday, and Ioane has a great combination of sheer power and agility. He hasn't given up a sack since 2023. Plus, Ioane could help open some rushing lanes for Omarion Hampton in the back's second year." - Kiper
23) Philadelphia Eagles: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 245

Kenyon Sadiq turned in a productive campaign with 51 receptions for 560 yards and eight touchdowns, with nearly half of his yardage coming after the catch. Explosive off the line and dangerous in space, Sadiq creates mismatches with his speed and acceleration. He transitions quickly from receiver to runner, forcing missed tackles and generating chunk plays, while competing as a willing blocker despite being slightly undersized for the position.

"If Philadelphia doesn't bring back free agent Dallas Goedert, it would be smart to draft a top-end replacement." - Kiper
24) Cleveland Browns (via JAX): OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
Height: 6-7 | Weight: 315

Monroe Freeling boasts prototypical tackle size at six-foot-seven, 315 pounds, pairing length with light feet and natural athleticism. He uses his reach to widen rushing lanes and stay connected in pass protection, flashing the movement skills to mirror edge rushers. Though still developing with limited experience, Freeling’s physical tools and technical foundation point to significant long-term upside.

"Freeling has started only 18 games, but he's a solid pass protector. He just needs some work as a run blocker. His ceiling is high, and I like the idea of pairing the 6-foot-7 Freeling with the 6-foot-8 [Dawand] Jones as the O-line's bookends." - Kiper
25) Chicago Bears: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 326

After playing limited roles early in his career, Kayden McDonald broke out in 2025 with 67 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, 17 run stops, and two forced fumbles. McDonald pairs elite interior strength with surprising quickness, consistently resetting the line of scrimmage and shedding blocks with improved recognition. His ability to anchor against the run while flashing disruptive traits as a penetrator turned him into a legitimate difference-maker inside.

"The Bears obviously need more edge rush support, but the board just isn't lining up. But with Gervon Dexter Sr. signed for only one more season and Grady Jarrett turning 33 in April, it would make sense to pad the defensive tackle group." - Kiper
26) Buffalo Bills: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 209

Denzel Boston showcased his physical profile with 62 receptions for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging 14.2 yards per catch. Boston blends size and polish, running crisp routes and consistently finishing through contact. His length allows him to shield defenders, and his downfield ability makes him a reliable vertical option who can win in contested situations.

"Boston's hands, catch radius, and vision would quickly make him a go-to option for quarterback Josh Allen. He finished with 881 yards and 11 scores last season, bullying opposing cornerbacks along the way." - Kiper
27) San Francisco 49ers: OT/G Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
Height: 6-foot-7 | Weight: 366

Kadyn Proctor brings rare size and athletic ability to the offensive line, with his late-season 2025 tape highlighting noticeable technical growth. At six-foot-seven and 366 pounds, Proctor combines length and movement skills that are difficult to teach. His ceiling remains high, projecting as a powerful tackle who can contribute in both pass protection and the run game as his consistency continues to improve.

"Proctor's tape is all over the place. The highs are really, really good. The lows raise a lot of questions. But in the right situation, he could become a standout tackle in the NFL. " - Kiper
28) Houston Texans: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame
Height: 5-foot-11 | Weight: 209

Jadarian Price made the most of his opportunities in 2025, totaling 113 carries for 674 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 6.0 yards per carry. Price runs with balance and burst, accelerating quickly through creases and finishing runs with authority. His efficiency speaks to his vision and decisiveness, consistently maximizing touches and turning limited volume into strong production.

"He's a powerful runner who plays a one-cut-and-go brand of football. There are ball security concerns (four lost fumbles over three years), and we haven't seen a ton from him as a pass catcher, but Price is dynamic." - Kiper
29) Los Angeles Rams: OT Blake Miller, Clemson
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 315

Blake Miller offers a steady, experienced presence up front, blending size and strength at six-foot-six, 315 pounds. Miller plays with balance and awareness, using sound technique to generate movement in the run game while maintaining control in pass protection. His ability to adjust to different fronts and maintain consistency snap-to-snap makes him a dependable option along the offensive line.

"The Rams' first pick in this mock draft went to the defense (Jermod McCoy), but I really like the idea of L.A. adding to the offensive line with its second one." - Kiper
30) Denver Broncos: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 202

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren emerged as a tone-setter in Toledo’s secondary, recording 77 total tackles, six pass defenses, three forced fumbles, two interceptions, and 0.5 sacks. With his size and range, McNeil-Warren covers ground quickly and plays with the physicality to impact the run game. He processes well in coverage, trusts his instincts, and consistently finds ways to be around the football.

"McNeil-Warren is a bit of a sleeper right now, but I think he could have been a top-15 pick had he played for a Power 4 team." - Kiper
31) New England Patriots: OLB R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 249

R Mason Thomas produced 26 tackles, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one pass defense in 2025, flashing consistent pass-rush upside. Thomas wins with a first-step burst and leverage, attacking tackles with quick hands and the ability to dip under contact. He complements that quickness with enough physicality to hold up against the run, projecting as a rotational rusher with developmental upside.

"As they try to get back to the Super Bowl with a talented roster, the Patriots could use another solid edge rusher or two. Thomas can get offensive tackles leaning and then beat them with either speed or power. " - Kiper
32) Seattle Seahawks: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 180

Avieon Terrell enjoyed a breakout season, totaling 48 tackles, nine pass defenses, five forced fumbles, and three sacks. Terrell’s fluid hips and quick feet help him mirror receivers, and he plays with an aggressive edge in both coverage and run support. Though slightly undersized, his speed, instincts, and knack for creating turnovers give him scheme versatility inside or outside.

"Let's close out Round 1 with a talented cornerback to replace free agents Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe, giving this Super Bowl champion defense yet another playmaker." - Kiper

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1) Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 225

Fernando Mendoza made the leap in 2025 after transferring from Cal to Indiana, putting together one of the most efficient seasons in the country. He completed 72.0% of his passes for 3,535 yards with 41 touchdowns and six interceptions across 16 games, while adding seven rushing scores on the ground.

Just as notable was his growth inside the pocket. Mendoza cut his sack total from 41 the previous season to 25, showing improved processing speed and a better feel for pressure. He doesn’t rely on overwhelming arm strength, but he consistently wins with anticipation, touch, and timing, operating comfortably within structure and keeping the offense on schedule.

"I won't waste a lot of time here: Mendoza to the Raiders seems pretty obvious at this point." - Kiper

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ESPN’s Mel Kiper Reveals Full First-Round Pick Predictions for 2026 NFL Draft

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